Partial deployment test of an articulated boom for satellites

Time-lapse footage of a partial deployment test of a new, European-made articulated boom for satellites. This 6.1-m long boom would unfold in orbit to support large deployable antenna reflectors, radiometers or other instruments extended from the main body of a satellite. HPS GmbH in Germany led its development for ESA, supported through the Agency’s Technology Research Programme. This partial deployment test took place in preparation of a functional thermal vacuum test inside the DLR German Aerospace Center’s facility in Bremen. Motors in its hinges serve to deploy the boom, taking about 15 minutes in real time.